Juicy Easy Baked Chicken

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Moist, flavorful, and wonderfully simple, this Juicy Easy Baked Chicken is the answer to weeknight dinner stress. With a golden crust of herbs and spices that lock in all the moisture, this dish is both foolproof and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers tender chicken every time without fail.

What makes this baked chicken truly stand out is the savory spice blend that does all the heavy lifting. It crisps up beautifully in the oven while keeping the inside juicy and succulent. The best part? It requires minimal ingredients and practically no babysitting—just prep, bake, and enjoy.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the best out of this Juicy Easy Baked Chicken, having the right tools is key:

• Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: A ceramic or metal baking dish helps distribute heat evenly for consistent cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches that perfect 165°F internal temperature without overbaking.
• Mixing Bowl: For evenly coating your chicken in that irresistible spice mix.
• Tongs or Silicone Brush: Great for handling raw chicken and brushing on oil or spices without mess.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: Optional, but makes clean-up a breeze and prevents sticking.

By using these kitchen basics, you’re setting yourself up for juicy success every single time.

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Ingredients for the Juicy Easy Baked Chicken

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building that deep flavor and juicy texture:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The star of the dish. Choose boneless, skinless pieces for quicker cooking.
• Olive Oil: Helps lock in moisture and gives the chicken a golden, crispy finish.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and vibrant color.
• Garlic Powder: Boosts the savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Onion Powder: Layers in sweet, rich undertones.
• Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning: Brings a herby balance to the spices.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.

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How To Make the Juicy Easy Baked Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line your baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

Step 2: Season Generously

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly using your hands or a silicone brush to make sure the spices stick well.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Place the seasoned chicken in your prepared dish and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temp of 165°F. For added browning, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain all those flavorful juices inside.

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How to Serve and Store Juicy Easy Baked Chicken

This juicy chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of rice, slice it into salads, stuff it in wraps, or pair it with roasted veggies for a complete meal. It’s perfect for both casual dinners and meal-prep days.

To store, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?

Yes! Just increase the baking time to ensure it cooks through. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

How do I keep baked chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature and allowing it to rest after baking. Olive oil also helps lock in moisture.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely. Letting it sit in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight enhances the flavor even more.

What sides pair best with this recipe?

Try garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or even a light couscous salad.

Can I make this with other proteins?

Yes, this seasoning blend works great on turkey cutlets or even tofu for a plant-based option.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Juicy Easy Baked Chicken, you’ll probably enjoy these other flavor-packed chicken recipes from Life With Olivia:

• Longhorn Parmesan Chicken for a restaurant-style crust.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a low-effort slow-cooked meal.
• Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet when you’re craving something rich and creamy.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for the ultimate comfort food.
• Savory Chicken Wraps with Garlic Cream Sauce for lunch-friendly leftovers.

Explore more quick and flavorful recipes on my Pinterest: Life With Olivia

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chicken breasts or go for thighs? Try adding chili flakes for extra heat?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, not harder.

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